Waves bye-bye

What is this milestone?

Imitates social gestures

Your baby purposefully raises their hand and waves in response to someone leaving, or when prompted to say 'bye-bye'.

Why it matters

Waving is a critical milestone in nonverbal social communication. It demonstrates an understanding of social routines and shows that they can imitate symbolic gestures used by adults.

What to expect leading up to it

Initial waves often look like a floppy wrist or an opening and closing of the fist rather than a side-to-side wave. Sometimes they will wave *after* the person has already left, as they are still processing the interaction.

How to encourage and support it

Model the behavior consistently. Wave whenever you leave a room or when a guest departs, and say 'bye-bye' cheerfully. You can also gently guide their hand to show them the motion.

When to talk to your doctor

Gestures matter as much as words at this age. Tell your pediatrician if your baby is not using any gestures -- waving, pointing, reaching up to be held, showing you things -- by 12 months. Absent gesturing is one of the earlier and more useful things to raise. And at any age, if your baby loses a skill they already had, tell your pediatrician that week.